Visit This Maine Beach Before Summer Ends

When was the last time that you have visited Old Orchard Beach, Maine? Never been? Here is either your reminder to revisit or see what you are missing on these 7-miles of sandy beach.  Two flatlanders who recently relocated to Maine explored the beach and the iconic pier that opened on July 2nd, 1898.

Be Prepared for Crowds, Pricey Parking, and TO EAT at Old Orchard Beach, Maine

When we arrived at Old Orchard Beach after a 2-hour drive from Bangor, we were pleasantly surprised by the amusement park. We had no idea that there would be one let alone with several rides and game options. Coming from the east coast, this felt like a scene straight from a movie. No surprise considering the rich history of this park dates back to 1902!

This will be an enjoyable visit if you are mentally prepared for crowds and parking. Cool places bring people (something I must remind myself often when I travel). We were prepared, and honestly, it was easy to maneuver the crowds on foot and in the car.

As for parking, the first lots we saw all offered a spot for $40. We just moved from California and are well aware that you never settle for the first offer for anything in tourist hotspots. It's usually a tourist trap. We found parking for $12 just around the corner about a 6-minute walk from the pier. A little patience and inquisitive eyes can easily save a few bucks.

Here's The Food Situation in Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Oh, you're on a diet? Not on this trip. Don't even bother. We explored four different restaurants, and they all had similar menus. Fried this, fried that, doughboys, pizza, lobster rolls priced for the location, and alcohol. We ended up settling for lobster rolls from a to-go shack and hit the beach.

It was recommended, almost demanded of us, that we get "pier fries." Not knowing at the time of recommendation what they were, the answer was revealed immediately upon getting out of the vehicle. They are everywhere whether being sold or consumed. Next time.

The Beach at Old Orchard Beach, Maine

We parked our towels and novels about a quarter mile from the pier and it was perfect; beautiful. Found a bench to enjoy our rolls while people watching, and then laid out for about two hours. Quiet enough to get a few chapters read, yet entertaining enough for solid people watching. And even though it was July, I was surprised at how "warm" and refreshing the water was.

We then walked along where the ocean kisses the shore down to the pier. It was a very enjoyable 4 hours at Old Orchard Beach. If you are looking to be a tourist for the day, enjoy a very active and fun environment, and while also experiencing one of Maine's most historic areas, then it's time to head to Old Orchard Beach before summer sets for the year. See more photos from our experience below!